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Elementary Education Certification Pathway

Career pathway for MC students enrolled in the University of Louisville's Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education.

Elementary Education Certification Pathway Logo

Elementary Education Pathway Information Sessions

join us to learn more about the Metro College Elementary Education Certification Pathway (P–5) and how you can earn your degree while preparing for a high-demand teaching career. During this virtual info session, you’ll discover how the program combines full tuition coverage, paid work experience, and hands-on classroom training to help you graduate ready to teach in Kentucky’s schools. You’ll also hear how this pathway supports your academic success while building real-world experience that leads directly to employment opportunities after graduation.

Whether you’re just starting to explore education as a career or ready to take the next step, this session will provide valuable insight into the program structure, benefits, and application process. 

Join us on [TBD – Date & Time] to connect with our team, ask questions, and learn how you can begin your journey toward becoming an elementary educator. (Check back in Fall 2026 for a time and date)

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

The MC Elementary Education Certification Pathway provides tuition assistance and academic support to students at the University of Louisville pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education. The pathway is designed to fulfill K-5 teaching positions in the state of Kentucky. Students participate in the Metropolitan College program for 3 ½ years working third shift at UPS and enroll in no more than 13 credit hours each semester. Students can begin enrollment in the program any fall, spring, or summer semester. 

Students will work with an assigned UofL Academic Advisor to ensure course selection starting noon or later each day. During the first three and a half years, Elementary Education Pathway participants are eligible for 100% coverage of undergraduate tuition up to the full-time, regular, resident rate for fall, spring, and summer semesters; weekly pay with a starting wage of $21 per hour as a part-time, third-shift employee at UPS Worldport; and the potential to earn academic bonuses and fee payments for fall and spring semesters. These bonuses can be saved to pay for tuition in the last semester while working for JCPS. MC students will complete their 240 hours of field experience on Fridays, summers, and at the beginning and end of the fall and spring semesters when UofL is not in session.

This pathway supports students pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education and includes six track options which you can explore further by clicking the individual tracks below:

In addition to academic advising, MC students receive ongoing support from their assigned MC Student Success Counselor, who provides guidance on program milestones, including:

  • Maintaining MC eligibility requirements such as completing CAPP Requirements, meeting work commitment dates, signing MC agreements on time, etc.
  • Preparing for and submitting the Upper Division application (typically between freshman and sophomore years)
  • Providing student specific support where needed. 

For more details on academic and program requirements—and to view a sample four-year flight plan see: Sample Four Year Flight Plan for MC Education Student

OPTION 9 FINANCIAL BENEFITS

What is Option 9? In the last semester of the program, students will work at a JCPS school as an Instructional Assistant (must meet employment eligibility) and earn 12 hours of student teaching credit. This is known as Option 9. Students will also complete a 1-credit on-line capstone course. While working as a JCPS Instructional Assistant, student will be eligible for:

  • 12 Credits of UofL Tuition Paid by:
    • A 25% grant-based tuition reduction for the last semester of undergraduate tuition at UofL.
    • Apply for JCPS tuition assistance. It is not guaranteed, and distribution of funds depends on the number of eligible employees requesting benefit.
    • Commonwealth Credit Union Teaching Certification Scholarship: Students who have signed a minimum of 3 metro college agreements prior to their final Option 9 teaching semester will be eligible for a $2,000 scholarship awarded by the Commonwealth Credit Union. Eligible students do not need to submit anything for this scholarship and the award will be posted during their final Option 9 teaching semester if program requirements are fulfilled.
    • Commonwealth Credit Union Savings Plan: The CCU savings plan option (if utilized) will require students in the program to make a $5-$30 a week direct deposit starting at the beginning of the program. Students will also save their MC semester bonuses and MC fee payments, into the Commonwealth Credit Union account. MC students are strongly encouraged to direct deposit as much as their budget will allow so that they can supplement their JCPS Instructional Assistant income, healthcare fees, and any outstanding tuition and fees during the last semester of the program. MC students should connect with a CCU Financial Services Representative at a local branch during their first semester in the MC program to utilize the savings plan.
  • Pay/Benefits
    • Instructional Assistant pay range is $19.01 to $22.01/hour.
    • Positions are 187 days and subject to escrow.
    • Employees under Option 9, once they are hired, do not receive benefits until the second month after full employment. To obtain healthcare insurance during the interim period, students can:
  • Future Hiring
    • When they successfully graduate, they will be in a high priority hiring status as a new hire.
    • All JCTA transfer rules will be followed meaning sitting teachers wanting to transfer will get first rights to openings per the CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement).

Students in high school teaching pathways can complete 9 credit hours and 33 field hours before starting at the University of Louisville and Metropolitan College. JCPS/Bullitt/Nelson/Oldham/Bardstown/Fayette/Spencer/Assumption Teaching Pathway fulfill some of the course requirements and field hours.

Review and print our Metropolitan College Elementary Education Certification Pathway Overview to learn more about the program & it's benefits. 

You can also view this Semester-by-Semester Student Checklist for all Elementary Education and MC program requirements throughout the entire four years of the program (Checklist includes summer semester!): New Student Program Requirements Checklist for MC Elementary Education

Explore Mentorship & Skill‑Building Opportunities

Students pursuing the Elementary Education Career Pathway have access to valuable tools that support career exploration, professional growth, and real‑world skill development. Metro College offers several resources designed to help you connect with mentors, strengthen your competencies, and prepare for elementary education‑focused roles.

MC Career Guide Online Mentorship Program

The MC Career Guide Online Mentorship Program gives Metro College students a direct connection to professionals in their field of interest. Through this program, you can:

  • Receive personalized guidance from industry mentors
  • Get one time feedback on your professional documents including your Resume and LinkedIn page
  • Develop confidence as you explore future opportunities

This program is especially beneficial for students seeking insight into elementary education career roles.
Learn more: https://metro-college.com/benefits/career-development/career-guides/students

Career Kickstart Resource Guide

The Career Kickstart Resource Guide is a comprehensive, easy‑to‑use collection of tools designed to help you build career readiness from the ground up. Inside, you’ll find resources on:

  • Resume and cover letter development
  • Interview preparation
  • Career exploration activities
  • Networking strategies
  • Goal‑setting and skill‑building tips

It’s an excellent starting point for students wanting a structured approach to professional development.
Explore the guide: https://metro-college.com/posts/careerkickstart-resource-guide

LinkedIn Learning 

If you are a UofL MC participant, you also receive free access to LinkedIn Learning, a powerful online platform offering thousands of expert‑led courses. Below are a few recommended courses.

You can earn certificates and develop industry‑aligned skills all at no cost. 

UofL students can log into LinkedIn Learning using your UofL log-in credentials here: https://www.linkedin.com/learning 

Coursera

Coursera is also one of the most popular platforms for online learning and conveniently has an 8-course program on the Foundations of Teaching for Learning. See the 8 courses below. You can choose which ones to complete, or you can complete all 8 at your convenience!

Recommended Technology Micro-Credentials Courses at UofL

CredentialDescriptionObjectives
LEAD 256. Technology in Our World Today Level 1 - SBThis course prepares students to analyze the role of leadership in organizational technology initiatives by achieving micro-credentials and technology trophies/badges/certificates from various vendors such as: Microsoft, IBM, and Google, etc. This course is taught at the introductory level. This course counts as a Cardinal Core Credit and can be taken to count towards your degree in Elementary Education.

Earn industry-recognized micro-credentials and badges from major technology providers such as Microsoft, IBM, and Google.

Develop foundational knowledge of technology systems and leadership concepts through an introductory-level learning experience.

Analyze the role of leadership in driving and managing organizational technology initiatives.

LEAD 257. Technology Industry Badges IIThis course prepares students to achieve micro-credentials and badges from Microsoft, IBM, and Google. It is intended for those seeking to enhance work ready skills using technology products and services. At least three advanced level badges must be achieved to pass this course. This course is taught at the advanced level.

Earn advanced micro-credentials and badges from leading technology providers such as Microsoft, IBM, and Google.

Apply technology skills to enhance workplace readiness and effectively use digital tools and services.

Demonstrate advanced competency by completing multiple high-level certifications within an accelerated, rigorous learning environment.

Learn more about Technology Micro-Credentials.

Professional Networking Opportunities

OpportunityDescriptionBenefits 
Educators Rising Competitions & Conferences

Educators Rising competitions give students a chance to prove themselves as professionals. Conferences provide regional, statewide, and national stages in which to network and be recognized for their achievements to the profession and develop the community that comes from being part of a network and a family of professionals.

 Learn more and get involved: Educators Rising Competitions & Conferences

Compete like a future educator
Show off your skills in lesson planning, public speaking, and more while building real-world experience.

Connect with others like you
Meet students from across the state who share your passion for teaching and making a difference.

Earn recognition & build your future
Gain awards, strengthen your resume, and take steps toward a career in education.

Start local, go far
Join a regional conference this fall and prepare for state and even national competitions!

Mentoring Tomorrow's Rising Professionals

Since 1985, MTRP has enriched education by fostering a community of educators who reflect the communities they serve. We support future educators through academic guidance, professional development, and opportunities to strengthen their teaching. MTRP prepares teachers to create rich and respectful learning environments, contributing to a strong educational ecosystem in the Louisville area, across Kentucky, and beyond.

 

Visit Engage UofL for more info: Mentoring Tomorrow's Rising Professionals - EngageUofL

Professional Development
Build real teaching skills through workshops, training, and hands-on experiences that prepare you for the classroom. 

Mentorship & Community
Connect with supportive mentors and peers who share your passion for education and want to see you succeed. 

Make an Impact
Learn how to create inclusive, engaging classrooms and become an educator who reflects and supports diverse communities. 

Career Readiness
Gain resume help, interview prep, networking opportunities, and connections with schools and education leaders. 

Currently a Metro College Student Interested in this Career Pathway?

Already enrolled at UofL but not currently a Metro College Student?

Already employed at UPS, but not currently enrolled at UofL?

Not currently enrolled at UofL or employed at UPS?

CHECK OUT OUR FIRST TWO GRADUATES!

 

(Brooke Hefley - Spring 2026 Graduate from the Elementary Education Career Pathway)

(Mckenna Reinhardt - Fall 2025 Graduate from the Elementary Education Career Pathway)

Meet Brooke Hefley & Mckenna Reinhardt, the first two Metro College students to reach their final semesters of the Elementary Education Career Pathway at the University of Louisville!

After balancing third-shift work at UPS with their studies, Mckenna graduated this past Fall 2025 and Brooke this past Spring 2026 — They're the first to earn two major final-semester benefits as well including a:

  • $2,000 Teaching Certification Scholarship through the Commonwealth Credit Union
  • 25% Tuition Discount

These benefits help students shift from working overnight at UPS to full-time student teaching with JCPS — a big step toward becoming a certified teacher.

Mckenna & Brooke's successes are huge milestones for the pathway and shows other students that it’s possible to reach the finish line. We’re proud of their hard work and excited to see what’s next!

QUESTIONS

Do you have specific questions and don’t know who to contact? Meet the Ed Pathway Team below: 

  • Ashley Batliner, MC Student Success Counselor: ashley.batliner@louisville.edu - Can answer questions related to Metro College program benefits and requirements  

  • Justin Crenshaw, Option 9 Program Coordinator: justin.crenshaw@louisville.edu - Can answer Option 9 related questions 

  • Keonna Gibbs, Academic Advisor: keonna.gibbs@louisville.edu - Can answer academic related questions and help with course scheduling for students in Elementary Only (INDV) and (IECE) tracks.  

  • Ty Constante, Academic Advisor: shane.constante@louisville.edu - Can answer academic related questions and help with course scheduling for students in the LBD and MSD tracks

  • Sara Heun, High Volume Talent Acquisition Analyst: saraheun@ups.com - Can answer UPS employment-related questions such as hours worked, HR issues, leave, etc. 

  • Kristi Lauder, Talent Acquisition Supervisor: klauder@ups.com - Can answer UPS employment-related questions such as hours worked, HR issues, leave, etc. 

 

Why Elementary Education Is a High-Demand Career in Kentucky

Sector Overview

The Elementary Education (P–5) pathway prepares students to become certified teachers for kindergarten through 5th grade classrooms. Through Metro College, students complete a Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education from the University of Louisville, while gaining hands-on experience through 240+ hours of fieldwork and student teaching in local schools.

This sector focuses on developing foundational academic skills in reading, math, science, and social studies, while supporting students’ social and emotional growth. Elementary educators play a critical role in shaping long-term student success and educational outcomes across Kentucky.

Why This Sector Matters in Kentucky

Education is a cornerstone of Kentucky’s workforce and economic development. Elementary teachers ensure that students build the basic literacy, numeracy, and critical thinking skills needed to succeed in later grades, postsecondary education, and careers.

With more than 650,000 students enrolled in Kentucky public schools across 171 districts, the need for a strong, stable teacher workforce directly impacts communities statewide. Ensuring access to qualified teachers—especially at the elementary level—is essential to improving graduation rates, workforce readiness, and long-term economic growth.

Why It’s High-Demand

Elementary education is a high-demand career field in Kentucky due to a sustained teacher shortage:

  • The 2025 Kentucky Educator Shortage Survey reported 2,421 total school vacancies, including 671 certified teaching positions. 
  • 140 out of 171 school districts reported at least one vacancy, showing shortages exist statewide. 
  • 72% of districts reported seeing fewer qualified applicants for teaching roles in recent years. 

Long-term trends reinforce this demand:

  • Teacher vacancies increased by over 260% between 2019 and 2023. 
  • Fewer individuals are entering teacher preparation programs, while more educators are leaving the profession. 

Together, these factors create a persistent gap between available teaching jobs and qualified candidates, particularly in elementary classrooms.

Opportunities in Kentucky

Students who complete this pathway can pursue roles such as:

  • Elementary School Teacher (K–5)
  • Instructional Assistant or Paraeducator
  • Special Education Teacher (with additional certification)
  • Early Childhood Educator

There are also strong local opportunities in districts like Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and surrounding areas. In Kentucky alone, there are approximately 1,300+ elementary teacher openings annually, reflecting both new positions and replacement needs. 

Metro College students gain a competitive advantage by completing student teaching and working in schools prior to graduation, often leading to quicker job placement.

Industry Growth & Outlook

While national employment for elementary teachers is projected to remain stable or slightly decline, job openings remain consistently high due to turnover, retirements, and career changes. Nationally, there are about 103,800 openings for elementary teachers each year, largely driven by replacement needs.

In Kentucky, demand is expected to remain strong due to:

  • Ongoing teacher shortages across most districts
  • Fewer graduates entering the teaching profession
  • Continued need to staff classrooms across all grade levels

State projections estimate over 1,300 annual openings for elementary teachers, ensuring consistent employment opportunities for graduates. 

Salary Expectations in Kentucky

Elementary teachers in Kentucky earn a competitive and stable income, with salary increasing based on experience, education level, and district:

  • Average salary: about $57,000–$59,000 per year 
  • Median salary: approximately $57,980 annually
  • Typical range: about $40,000 to $70,000+, depending on experience and location

In addition to salary, teachers often receive benefits such as retirement plans, health insurance, and paid time off, contributing to long-term financial stability.

Final Takeaway

Elementary education offers a meaningful, stable, and high-demand career pathway in Kentucky. With strong workforce need, steady job openings, and the opportunity to make a lasting impact on students and communities, this pathway prepares graduates for both immediate employment and long-term career success.